8 Carpet Stains and How to Remove Them Like a Pro

If you have carpet flooring, you will know that carpet stains are a part of life, whether from a splash of coffee during your morning routine or a glass of wine tipped over at a dinner party. While these mishaps are common, they can leave you wondering how to remove carpet stains effectively without causing further damage to your precious carpet. The good news is that with the right techniques and a little bit of patience, you can tackle even the toughest stains and restore your carpet to its former glory.

Let’s explore ten common carpet stains and provide you with professional tips on how to remove them like a pro.

Coffee and Tea Stains

For avid coffee and tea drinkers, you may be unable to avoid coffee and tea. The trick to evicting these brown blemishes is swift action as they seep deep into carpet fibres.

The first step is to blot the stain with a clean cloth to soak up the excess liquid. Then, mix a portion of one tablespoon of liquid dish soap, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and two cups of warm water. Dab this concoction onto the stain with a clean cloth and blot. Rinse with cold water, blot dry and repeat the process until the stain disappears.

Wine Stains

The red wine is the life of the party until it crashes onto your carpet. First, grab a clean cloth and blot up as much of the spill as possible—don’t rub! Next, sprinkle a generous amount of salt over the stain to soak up the wine. Give it a few minutes to work its magic, then vacuum up the salt.

If you still see red, mix one part hydrogen peroxide with two parts dishwashing liquid and apply to the stain. Blot, rinse with cold water, and repeat until the stain is gone.

Pet Accidents

Pet accidents are a part of pet ownership, but they don't have to ruin your carpet. They not only leave stains, but they can also leave a lingering odour. Start by blotting up any liquid with a towel—don't rub. Mix equal parts white vinegar and water and apply it to the stain to neutralize the odour and lift the mess. Blot again with a clean cloth, then sprinkle baking soda over the area. Let it dry completely before vacuuming up the residue.

 For those persistent odours that refuse to leave, an enzyme-based cleaner will do the trick.

Ink Stains

Ink stains are rebellious in the stain world—bold and hard to control. First, grab a clean cloth and blot to lift any excess ink. Avoid rubbing to avoid the stain spreading on your carpet. Next, dab a bit of isopropyl alcohol on a cotton ball and gently apply it to the stain. Blot again, repeating the process until the ink starts to vanish. It's a game of patience and finesse. Rinse the area with cold water and blot dry. If the stain is still there, consider using a specialized ink stain remover for that final touch.

Grease and Oil Stains

Grease and oil stains are stubborn on carpets. First, get baking soda or cornstarch, sprinkle generously over the stain, and let it sit for about 15 minutes. Vacuum up the powder and prepare for round two. Mix a solution of one tablespoon dishwashing liquid and two cups of warm water. Apply the solution to the stain and blot it away with a clean cloth. Repeat as necessary.

Mud and Dirt Stains

Mud and dirt stains are nature’s way of reminding us that the outdoors exists. First, let the mud dry completely. Yes, this will make it easier to scrape off. Once dry, vacuum up as much dirt as you can.

Now, mix a solution that’s part dishwashing liquid and part warm water. Apply this soapy solution to the stain and gently blot away with a clean cloth. Scrub gently, rinse with cold water, and blot dry. If stains persist, use a carpet cleaner with a rotating brush.

Chocolate and Candy Stains

Chocolate and candy stains are like tiny sugar bombs detonating on your carpet. Start by scraping off as much chocolate or candy as possible using a spoon or a butter knife. Then, mix a solution of one tablespoon dishwashing liquid and two cups of warm water. Dab this mixture onto the stain, blotting gently with a clean cloth. The key is to lift the stain without spreading.

If sticky residues persist, a little white vinegar can work wonders in dissolving those sugar-based stains. Dab, blot, rinse with cold water and repeat until your carpet returns to its pristine state. For stubborn remnants, a soft-bristled brush can help dislodge the sugary bits.

Juice and Soda Stains

Juice and soda stains can leave marks on your carpet. Use a clean cloth to blot up as much of the sugary liquid as possible—no rubbing or scrubbing. Next, mix up a simple solution: one tablespoon of dishwashing liquid, one tablespoon of white vinegar, and two cups of warm water. Apply the solution to the stain and start blotting.

Rinse the area with cold water and blot it dry with a clean cloth. Do you still see that stubborn stain? Use a carpet cleaner with an extractor function to suck out the remnants of that juice or soda spill.

A dab of white vinegar or a sprinkle of baking soda can help with particularly persistent stains that will not go away.

Fast Action, Quick Fix

No stain is hard to remove from your carpet if you act swiftly. With the right techniques and prompt response, you can tackle any spill and keep your carpets looking fresh.

If it’s too late and you think you need a replacement, contact us, and we can help you find the perfect new carpets to rejuvenate your space.